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Replace a Toilet Wax Ring

By Cottins Hardware |
If water is seeping out from beneath the toilet bowl or there is a faint smell of sewer gas in the bathroom, it is definitely time to replace the toilet bowl wax ring. Step 1: Remove the tank lid and place it in a safe spot. Lay a… Read More

Fix a Leaky Toilet – Flapper

By Cottins Hardware |
Step 1: To replace your worn toilet tank flapper, begin by shutting off the water supply. Step 2: Flush the toilet to empty the tank and carefully remove the tank lid. Set the lid somewhere safe. The lid is very fragile and nearly impossible to replace, so don’t… Read More

Fix a Leaky Toilet – Fill Valve

By Cottins Hardware |
If you have recently replaced the tank flapper and your toilet is still running,it may be time to pull out the big guns and replace your ball cock, aka fill valve. I prefer the Fluid Master Brand fill valves over the old style floating ball types. They are much easier… Read More

Tree for Shade

By Cottins Hardware |
Spring is a great time to plant a tree for shade and savings. Trees not only increase the value of your property, but can also reduce energy costs by providing much needed summer shade. Step 1: Choose the right tree. Height, canopy spread, and hardiness should be taken… Read More

Replace a Lamp Socket

By Cottins Hardware |
When it comes to old light fixtures, repairing rather than replacing is always a good option. Replacing a lamp socket assembly is an easy way to extend the life of an old light fixture. Step 1: Make sure the lamp is unplugged, or the power supply has been… Read More

Eliminating Ants Inside

By Cottins Hardware |
About ants and eliminating Ants inside. When the ants come marching two-by-two, into your kitchen, “hurrah, hurrah” is most likely not the first phrase that comes to mind. With a little due diligence and some chemical intervention, you can fix your ant problem in no time. Step… Read More

To Seed or Not to Seed

By Cottins Hardware |
To seed or not to seed, that is the question. Spring is a great time to over seed an existing lawn. Sunshine is abundant in those normally shady spots and springtime rains assure an adequate supply of moisture. Spring is also the only time you can control crabgrass with… Read More

Install a Window Box

By Cottins Hardware |
Window boxes can add charm and color to any structure on your property. Consider adding a window box to your home, garage or storage shed. Step 1: Choose a window that faces the south, east or west and measure the width of the window. … Read More

When to Fertilize Lawn

By Cottins Hardware |
To fertilize or not to fertilize… that is the question. Excessive fertilization is detrimental to your lawn, wastes money, causes pest problems and is bad for the environment. Knowing how and when to fertilize your yard is essential in creating a healthy lawn. Step 1: Test… Read More

Silent Lawn Care

By Cottins Hardware |
The silent whirr of a reel mower coupled with its fume free simplicity is often a good alternative to gas-powered lawn care. Step 1: Reel mowers don’t use gas or motor oil. They are easier to store than gas mowers and can be used in the early morning… Read More